October 2017


The fall and winter months are just around the corner. These can be beautiful seasons outside. But the cooler weather also means people retreat indoors and spend a lot more time there. Cooler weather means heating your home and a higher prevalence of sickness like the flu.

Heating homes is one of the biggest single ways humans create pollution and one of the biggest utility costs. Of course, heat is vital in the winter. Our earth has many fascinating methods of dealing with the pollution we create and maintaining balance, but we can still overwhelm it. The best way to reduce the amount of energy used heating your home and car and in turn save you money is to keep the thermostat low. Keep it set to 68-70°F during the cold months and wear extra clothes especially on your feet. Other tips include:

· Take shorter showers.

· Keep the hot water heater on a medium temperature.

· Run dishwasher, washer, and dryer on energy saving setting.

· When its time to replace a heater or other appliance look for high efficiency models with Energy Star ratings.

It is important to keep a clean environment inside to reduce the spread of sickness. Eco Health by Sharon Platt-McDonald has several tips that are safe for children, the environment, and will save money:

· Use non-toxic cleaners and soaps. The CDC recommends avoiding antibacterial options because these create antibiotic resistant bacteria. Use plain soap and water when possible and alcohol wipes or non-toxic cleaners when not.

· Mix a three to one ratio of water to white vinegar and a few drops of soap to make a non-toxic home cleaner.

· A mixture of salt and lemon juice acts as a good stain remover for dishes and cutting boards.

· Clean your house frequently, especially door knobs, hand towels, and dish sponge to reduce spread of bacteria.

· Avoid artificial air fresheners as these contain hazardous chemicals.

During fall and winter, we focus a lot on family. Let’s do what we can to ensure our precious earth will be there for them.
____________________

By David F. Garner




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